Song of the Far Isles

A New Musical
Adapted from the book by Nicolas Bowling

In Development

BEAM 2023 New Musicals Showcase
Scottish Musicals Commission Hub 2024

Song of the Far Isles is a new actor-musician musical set in a folky fantasy world reminiscent of the Western Isles in Scotland. It has a similar twist to His Dark Materials, except that instead of Daemons, everyone is born with a musical instrument- a Birth Instrument that is part of who they are- which they play though life, each in their own way, expressing their feelings and personalities through music.

“Oran’s home is on the far isle of Little Drum where everyone lives and breathes music. When their way of life is stopped by an order of silence, it is Oran who must go in search of a way to bring the music back to the world”

The show is folky, atmospheric and fun, full of adventure, mystery and dramatic moments as we follow Oran’s adventures across the dangerous seas to the mainland, to bring music back to the world. At the show’s heart is a contemporary and relevant message about the importance of having a voice in the face of oppression, and how the freedom of music and creativity can be used as a force for good.

The music takes inspiration from Scottish folk music. It’s a tradition where music and song is woven into everyday life- telling old stories through song that traverse generations, and celebrating shared experience through music. It’s an amazing form of emotional expression that all ages can engage with. We want the audience to experience the magic of brilliant music played live on a variety of instruments, with all the spirit and energy of a ceilidh, which is part of the fabric of the show. We’re also incorporating more modern styles and influence in order to highlight the individuality of the characters and their instruments, and give it some contemporary relevance to audiences today.

We envisage the show will be suitable for both adults and children aged 7+ (pitched similarly to Matilda for example)

What Birth Instrument is yours? Take the Quiz

For more information please contact matt@goblintheatre.co.uk

Photos below are from Scottish Musicals Commission Hub 2024 R&D (Capital Theatres, Edinburgh & Pitlochry Festival Theatre) photos by Andrew Perry